Mary Elizabeth Short
August 23, 1937 – June 17, 2025

Mary Elizabeth Short, 87, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 17th, surrounded by her family.

Born in Winamac, Indiana, on August 23, 1937, to Wilfred and Elizabeth Selle, Mary grew up with strong values and a deep sense of purpose that carried through her entire life. She met her husband, Robert Short, at Ball State University, where they both pursued careers in education. The two were married in 1957, and shortly thereafter moved to Fort Wayne to begin their teaching journeys.

Mary began her career at Francis Slocum Elementary and spent the majority of her 34-year teaching career at Harris Elementary, where she taught kindergarten. Her impact on generations of children was remarkable—not only did many former students call her their favorite teacher, but Mary had an uncanny ability to remember names and unique details about her students, even decades later. She loved running into them around town and cherished those moments of connection.

Mary's influence extended far beyond the classroom. A dedicated community member, she was actively involved in Tri-Kappa, NEIRRS (where she read for the blind), local theatre, the public library, and numerous civic and cultural organizations. She had a firm belief in service, community, and doing good wherever she could. She stayed connected to her teaching roots—and to the joy of children—by playing Mrs. Claus at the Embassy Theatre for many years. It was just one of the many ways she continued to give back, spreading warmth, laughter, and a bit of magic to those around her.

Her calendar was always full—and that's exactly how she liked it. Whether she was planning lunch dates with friends, organizing group outings, or arranging a bus trip to Lake Geneva or the Yuletide Celebration in Indianapolis, Mary brought people together with joy and purpose. She loved playing cards, but only when she won, and met regularly at the Tower Bar with the locally created chapter of the "Biden Babes".

Mary was also a gifted and passionate writer. Known for her thoughtful handwritten notes—treasured by many—she believed in the power of words and took pride in maintaining the lost art of letter writing. She also wrote frequent letters to the editor, never hesitating to share her views on politics, justice, or integrity. Mary stood firmly for what she believed in, and she believed in honesty, patriotism, and standing up for those less fortunate.

Above all, Mary adored her family. She was deeply proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. And, if you truly knew Mary, you knew her hair was her trademark. Impeccably styled, never to be touched, and fiercely protected. It was widely known if you splashed her hair at the lake, you would be banned from swimming for life. It was a source of pride, humor, and even legend within the family.

In tribute and celebration of Mary's legacy, the family asks that you consider writing someone a note, having lunch with a friend, or standing up for something that matters. That's what she would have done.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Snyder (Wayne), her son, Scott Short (Robert Stipicevich), two grandsons, Matt Snyder (Sarah) and Chris Snyder (Kelsey), and four great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings, Ellen Hargis Miller, Barb Kiser, and Richard Selle (Marti).

At Mary's request, there will be no public calling or service. A private celebration of her life will be held by her family at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre, in memory of Mary Short at www.bit.ly/MaryShort

Fond memories and condolences may be shared at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com